Durock Anubis vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Durock Anubis and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Durock Anubis, a tactile switch, and the Dareu Snow, a linear switch, you are presented with two distinct options for your mechanical keyboard setup. The Anubis is loved for its deep and resonant sound profile, offering a satisfying tactile feedback with a pronounced bump that intensifies every keystroke. On the other hand, the Snow switch boasts an innovative use of POK material, resulting in a smooth linear experience with a deeper sound signature. While the Anubis provides sharp tactility, the Snow offers a bouncy and low-pitched typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Anubis and the Dareu Snow, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for the top housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Snow features a POK top housing, which is praised for its smoothness and durability. While both materials offer unique benefits, it can be said that typing on switches with either housing material will result in a satisfying typing experience. The nylon top housing may provide a rounder sound, while the POK top housing contributes to a smoother and clackier feel.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Anubis and Snow use nylon for this component. As mentioned earlier, nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, making it a popular choice for switch housings. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, and with nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs sound well, users can expect a more muted and rounded sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Overall, the similarities in bottom housing material between the two keyboards suggest that users may experience comparable typing experiences with regards to sound profile.
It is important to note that while the top and bottom housings of the Anubis and Snow may differ in material, both keyboards are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience. The qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether it be the deeper and fuller sound profile of nylon in the Anubis or the smooth and durable characteristics of POK in the Snow, both keyboards offer unique qualities that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two keyboards may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
The Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch have distinct differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Anubis has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In comparison, the Snow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Anubis. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Snow may be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial push feel, the Anubis with its heavier bottom out force may provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Durock Anubis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Gamers may prefer the Snow switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while others may find the Anubis switch more satisfying with its longer travel distance for a deeper key press. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the Anubis being the longer option and the Snow being the shorter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
The Durock Anubis comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Durock Anubis tactile switch offers a deep and resonant sound profile with a satisfying and assertive tactile feedback. The bump is pronounced, providing a sharp tactility that intensifies every keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch stands out with its innovative use of POK material for both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature when typing. While the Anubis provides a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes, the Snow switch delivers a thocky, low-pitched sound that is rich and satisfying. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Anubis is described as having an accented tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still prominent, along with a polished finish for a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like and lively feel with rebound when pressed. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences, with the Anubis focusing on a balanced tactility and smooth key travel, while the Snow switch emphasizes a responsive and lively keystroke.
In conclusion, the Durock Anubis tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table. While the Anubis excels in providing a sharp and satisfying tactile feedback with a pronounced bump, the Snow switch offers a deeper sound signature and a bouncy, spring-like feel. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Remember that experimenting with different switches on various boards and keycaps can also enhance or alter the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Anubis tactile switch or the Dareu Snow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deep, resonant sound profile, the Anubis may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a medium bottom out force and innovative use of POK material for a deeper sound signature, the Snow switch could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you in order to make the best decision for your typing experience.
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